A Louisville Metro Police Department homicide detective featured on the television program The First 48 has died unexpectedly while off-duty.
Sgt. Jon Lesher joined LMPD in 2001 after serving in the U.S. Army and working at Louisville Metro Corrections. He became a homicide detective in 2009.
LMPD homicide detective Emily McKinley issued a statement on behalf of the department:
It is with an extremely heavy heart that I announce the passing of our friend, Jon Lesher. Jon was a true staple to this police department and especially within the Homicide Unit. He was one who led from the front and always, always had the backs of his people. If you were lucky enough to have crossed paths with Jon, he is one you will never forget and you probably have funny story, selfie or “photoshopped” picture to remember him by. His presence was always genuine and honest, but also light and humorous. He had a gravitating personality and will be deeply missed by many. Jon was a father, husband, brother, friend, and a good cop.
Louisville Councilwoman Jessica Green posted on her Facebook page that “Jon was one of the finest detectives and greatest people I have ever had the opportunity to work with and know.
Lesher, originally from Pennsylvania, leaves behind a wife and two children.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com or 270-259-6000
